Muneeb Hermans – A Soulful Voice in South African Jazz

A gifted trumpeter and composer, Muneeb Hermans has captivated audiences both locally and internationally with his soul-stirring sound. His journey from Cape Town’s vibrant Minstrel tradition to becoming a global jazz presence has seen him grace prestigious stages in the UK, France, China, Seychelles, Spain, and the USA – including a landmark performance at Carnegie Hall.

A regular at South Africa’s top jazz festivals, including the Makhanda National Youth Jazz Festival and Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, Muneeb’s career has been shaped by collaborations with icons like Caiphus Semenya, Errol Dyers, Jimmy Dludlu, Marcus Wyatt, and Benjamin Jephta. His acclaimed debut album, One for HP, showcases his ability to fuse contemporary jazz with Cape jazz influences, a sound that is uniquely his own.

The Ploemies – Jazz Rising from Cape Town’s Toughest Streets

Emerging from the challenging neighbourhoods of the Western Cape, The Ploemies are a powerful symbol of resilience and creativity, proving that world-class jazz can rise from the heart of South Africa’s most vibrant yet often overlooked communities. This dynamic collective of pioneering young musicians is keeping South African music alive while fearlessly pushing it into bold new territories.

Comprised of Bradley Prince (electric guitar), Duncan Johnson (saxophone), Shaun Johannes (electric bass guitar), and Keno Carelse (drums), the band fuses jazz, funk, Ghoema, and global influences into a fresh and electrifying sound. Their music seamlessly blends South African Ghoema with Mozambican Marabenta, Congolese Kwassa-Kwassa, and Cuban Salsa, creating infectious grooves that celebrate both heritage and innovation.

By championing lesser-known South African composers and unrecorded artists, The Ploemies amplify voices that often go unheard, ensuring that the country’s rich musical traditions continue to evolve.

Described by Samantha Nel (@ohthestoriesyoulltell) as “an important group of pioneering young musicians keeping South African music alive while updating it with injections of Fusion, Funk, and Ghoema”, The Ploemies are not just preserving tradition – they are redefining it.

Cape Town’s Jazz Scene in the Spotlight

With a line-up featuring over 30 artists, including 10 international acts, this year’s CTIJF promises a celebration of jazz like no other. The inclusion of Cape Town’s finest talents, from Muneeb Hermans’ masterful trumpet to The Ploemies’ ground-breaking fusion, ensures that the festival remains a true showcase of both legacy and innovation.

For more details about the other artists revealed thus far, visit www.capetownjazzfest.com, download the festival app, and follow the festival’s social media platforms @theofficialcapetownjazzfestival.

Don’t miss Muneeb Hermans and The Ploemies as they take Cape Town’s jazz heritage to bold new heights at CTIJF 2025.